Tie alongside, fenders, lines, and etiquette
One of the more intimidating moments if you are new cruising is to know whether you should tie alongside another boat or anchor by yourself. Is it ok to ask? Should you assume that everyone is ok with you coming alongside? Here are some suggestions that will make this easier for everyone. If you are already anchored and would not mind if someone rafted up alongside you then you should hang some fenders to invite boaters entering the anchorage to come alongside. You can also use your radio to contact a vessel that is entering the anchorage to invite them alongside. If you are entering an anchorage, watch for boats that have fenders out and listen for invites on the radio or contact them and ask if you can come alongside. When setting up your lines be sure to misalign the masts so they won’t interfere with each other if there is a wake. Also use 4 lines. Bow, stern, forward spring and aft spring. When in a raft and you want to go to a boat on the other side of the one you are tied to, you should walk across the boat via the bow, not the cockpit. Ensure fenders are well placed and don’t squeak. When making adjustments always defer to the person you are rafting with.